Navigating parenthood can feel overwhelming, especially with so much information available. From breastfeeding debates to extracurricular choices, the options seem endless, as highlighted in a recent piece by Sarah Watts in The New York Times. Many parents feel pressured to adopt a parenting identity—whether it be Gentle Parent or Helicopter Parent—but these labels often lose their charm. Below are seven parenting styles I’ve decided to leave behind since my second child arrived.
1. Adorable Bento Box Parenting
With my first child, I indulged in all things cute—quirky snack containers and stylish picnic gear. Fast forward to baby #2, and my lunch packing skills have plummeted. Now, my older child heads off to school with a haphazard lunch crammed into a faded yogurt cup and an old tin.
2. Chic Outfit Parenting
Before kids, I was all about finding the perfect jeans or trendy tops. After my first child, I managed to keep up the style game, but with two kids? The struggle is real. I often find myself in comfy black pants and flowy tops, trying to avoid the full sweats look. As my friend Lisa wisely puts it, “Don’t give in to the frumpiness!”
3. Frog in a Biology Class Parenting
You remember how you could make a dead frog twitch with a pin in biology class? That’s how I feel when my toddler screams in the middle of the night. Instead of racing to his crib, I now take a moment to assess the situation. More often than not, he settles back down on his own, proving that sometimes a little patience goes a long way.
4. Uh-Huh Parenting
In the early days, I would crouch down to my child’s level and engage in elaborate discussions about the importance of leaving the playground. My son, however, was more focused on his own fun and would often scream in response. Now, I simply announce it’s time to go and stick to it. They may still protest, but at least I’m not trying to negotiate a treaty.
5. Happy Hour Parenting
With my first child, I’d enjoy a cocktail while making dinner and catching up on the news. But with two kids, I need all my wits about me. Now, I reserve my drinks for after bedtime, avoiding any potential chaos that may ensue when my little ones decide to team up against me.
6. Intense Eye Contact Parenting
Initially, I was all about attachment parenting, gazing lovingly at my baby every chance I got. However, the reality of parenting two kids means I’ve got less time for that kind of focus. Now, when my second child wanders into the kitchen, I’m often surprised, thinking, “Oh, hey, look who it is!”
7. Spotless Home Parenting
I used to be meticulous about cleaning, scrubbing every corner with gloves and disinfectants. Now, I’m more relaxed about the mess. If I see something grimy, a quick wipe with a Clorox cloth will suffice.
In conclusion, becoming a parent of two certainly changes your perspective on what matters. As I let go of these previous parenting styles, I’m learning to embrace the chaos and enjoy the moments that truly count. For more insights on parenting and fertility, you can check out this resource on home insemination. If you’re curious about artificial insemination, Make a Mom is an authority on this topic, while NHS offers excellent information on pregnancy and insemination.